CROSSROADS PRESCHOOL
POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL
Mission
Crossroads Preschool is committed to providing a quality educational program which teaches
the joy of learning, and models Biblical principles in a loving Christian environment.
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CONTENTS
Communication………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2
Enrollment Policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2
Curriculum………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2
Registration Fee…….……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
3
Tuition…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
3
Payment Procedures……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
4
Checks with Insufficient Funds……………………………………………………………………………………..
4
Late Fees ………....…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
4
Discounts ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
4
Hours of Operation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
5
Arrival and Departures……………………………………………………………………………………………………
5
Absences………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
6
Holidays/Vacations…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
6
Snow Days………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
6
Clothing/Attire………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
6
Personal Belongings………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
6
Supplies…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
7
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Donations………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
7
Preschool Schedule………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
8
Meals………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
8
Fire Drills…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
8
Child Abuse and Protection……………………………………………………………………………………………..
8
Parental Involvement………………………………………………………………………………………………………
9
Discipline…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
9
Health Issues, Medication and Illness……………………………………………………………………………..
10 & 11
Statement of Agreement (needs to be signed, dated, and given back to Preschool)
……... 11
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Communication
Crossroads Preschool program views itself as an extension of each child’s family. We
feel it is vital to communicate regularly with parents and involve parents/family in
our school. We do this through monthly calendars, special activities, parent/teacher
conferences and an open door policy. When a new family is accepted into our
ministry, we like to be sure that we can share openly about any concerns or questions
that may arise. We welcome questions, feedback, or discussions of any kind that are
oriented towards a positive outcome for the children. Sensitive issues will be
discussed in private at a mutually beneficial time.
Enrollment Policy
Students will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.
All forms must be completed and in our possession before we can consider your child
for enrollment. This is to ensure that your child will get the very best care possible
and satisfies the record keeping requirement of state registered ministry guidelines.
All forms will be reviewed annually. If there are changes to any of the forms in the
enrollment packet, please notify your director to update your records.
If you have any questions regarding the completion of these forms, please feel free to
ask your director.
Curriculum
Crossroads Preschool uses Scripture Bites as biblical curriculum and A Beka Curriculum
for educational. This can be viewed online at kiddieprep.tripod.com/
scripturebitesmenu.htm and www.abeka.com. Activities correspond with the
attention span, developmental stage, and interests of the children. Concepts are
presented in an interesting and fun manner, through puppet plays, art projects,
stories, games, songs, finger plays, etc.
Crossroads Preschool emphasizes Christ centered learning. Biblical truths and
traditional Christian values such as caring, sharing, loving, honesty, and acceptance
are stressed throughout our curriculum as well as attitudes and behaviors such as
independence, creativity, responsibility, curiosity, self- esteem, etc.
A Christian education nurtures children's knowledge and understanding of God, Jesus,
the Bible, the church, themselves and others. We will present these ideas through
Bible stories/verses, pictures, songs, and /or play activities.
Crafts and activities include projects which develop imagination, individuality, and
aesthetic appreciation. They also develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
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Language development includes prayer time, discussions, "show and tell", word
games, stories, books, and other experiences to increase communication skills.
Physical development includes games, exercises, and activities (both indoor and
outdoor) which increase physical skills and large muscle coordination as we develop a
good self-concept as a child of God and a person of value.
Science includes experiments and observations to know the creative power of God and
to feel the continuing presence of God as the students experience, explore, and enjoy
the world in which the live.
Creative/free play and movement implements the use of puppets, props, blocks, play
dough, sand and water table, dramatics, and movement. This promotes social
interaction as well as an appreciation and an understanding of God's love for all God
has created.
Music activities include Christian as well as secular songs, and musical instruments.
Pre-math skills include the use of learning games, crafts, worksheets, stories,
activities, and manipulatives that provide a foundation for understanding
mathematical concepts.
Snack time is provided to promote physical growth, sharing, courtesy, good manners,
and a thankful heart.
Special programs are offered throughout the year (Christmas program and Graduation
ceremony) as students participate in Christian as well as secular celebrations.
Registration Fee
There is a $65 Non-Refundable/Non-Applicable registration fee per family at time of
enrollment. If you terminate childcare services and are gone more than 90 days and
wish to return to Crossroads Preschool, you must pay a $50 re-application fee. Reapplication does not guarantee your child will be re-enrolled.
Tuition
Tuition is based on enrollment (a reserved space), not on attendance.
18 months - 2 Year Old Class
$125/week
2 ½ - 3 ½ Year Old Class
$125/week
3 ½ -5 Year Old Classes (must be potty trained)
$115/week
Tuition and fees are computed with the following factors in mind:
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1. Food, health supplies, craft/activity/curriculum supplies, toys, computers, play
equipment and books provided for the children
2. Outside play equipment
3. Employees' Social Security, Medicare, and Workers Compensation
4. Employees' continuing education
5. Employee wages and benefits
6. Building rent, heat, electricity, telephone, maintenance, and liability insurance
7. Additional time spent, each day, on record keeping, parent-provider
communication: clean up from day care, and shopping trips for snacks and
supplies
Payment Procedures
Tuition is payable in advance and is required by the first working day of every month
or the first day of the week. Payment may be made by check or cash. Please keep in
mind that the success of our ministry depends upon the prompt payment of tuition/
fees in order to take care of day-to-day expenses that are encountered. Non-payment
will result in your child’s dismissal from Crossroads Preschool.
Parents are responsible for the full month’s/weeks tuition even when children may be
absent from school for vacations or illness. Our budget is based on the yearly tuition.
Please deliver notes by hand to one of the teachers or the Director, Danae Fisher.
Checks are to be made payable to Crossroads Preschool. Tuition payment may be
brought to school or mailed to:
Crossroads Community Church, 3322 Middlebury St, Elkhart, IN 46516
Checks with Insufficient Funds
If a check is returned for insufficient funds there will charge a $30 fee in addition to
immediate payment of tuition for services to continue. The second time a check is
deemed insufficient, childcare services may be halted until full payment of tuition has
been made in CASH.
Late Pick Up Fees
A $1.50 per minute late pickup fee will be assessed for all children picked up after
closing. This must be paid for when the next monthly installment is made. This will be
strictly enforced, and habitual tardiness may result in termination of services.
Multiple Child Discount
Discounts will be given to families with more than one child enrolled in our program.
The youngest child will pay the full price while additional children will receive the
discount outlined below.
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Youngest Child
Second Child
Third and/or more
Full price
10% discount
20% discount
Hours of Operation
We offer full time child care from 7:30a.m. - 5:30p.m., Monday through Friday.
Arrival and Departures
Please feed your child breakfast before you arrive as we will only be providing a
morning snack, not a full meal at the beginning of the day. Also, we will try our best
to send your child home with a clean diaper, and would appreciate the same
consideration when you drop off.
It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents, or cry when
dropping off. Please make your drop off brief, the longer you prolong the departure,
the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful good-bye kiss, and a reassuring word that you will
be back is all that is needed. In my experience, children are nearly always quick to
get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone.
Please be brief at pick-up times, as well. This is a time of testing, when two different
authority figures are present (the parent and the provider). All children will test to
see if the rules still apply. During arrival and departure, we expect parents to back up
our rules. Please be in control of your child during pick up times.
Children will ONLY be released to his/her parents, or a person the parents designate
on the Authorized Pick-up and Emergency Contact Form. If someone other than the
parent is to pick up the child you MUST notify us ahead of time in writing. To protect
your child he/she will NOT be released to any person without your written permission.
Please inform emergency contacts, or people designated to pick up your child, that
will need to see official identification (driver’s license) at the time of pick up. This is
not meant to offend them. This is simply a measure taken for your child's protection.
ALL CHILDREN MUST USE SEAT BELTS. As child care providers we are mandated by the
state to report anyone who does not have car seats. All students, even five year olds,
should have car seats.
Lastly, drop off and pick up are not good times to discuss serious problems. Little ears
and minds hear and understand everything. Your director can set up a more
appropriate time where the issues can be discussed in private.
Absences
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Childcare fees are based on enrollment (a reserved space), not on attendance. To
maintain a reserved space, fees must be paid during the absence of a child due to
illness, holidays, maternity leave, vacation, or for any other reason.
Holidays / Vacations
The following is a list of the holidays that Crossroads Preschool will be closed:
• Labor Day (September 7)
• Thanksgiving Break (November 25 – 27)
• Bethlehem Live (December 4)
• Christmas Break (December 21– January 1)
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 18th)
• President’s Day ( February 15th - Parent-Teacher Conferences)
• Good Friday (March 25)
• Spring Break (April 4-8)
• Memorial Day (May 30)
• Independence Day (We will be closed Friday, July 1)
If one of these holidays falls on a weekend, then we will be closed either Friday or
Monday. Specific dates will be given in the monthly calendars.
Snow Days
Crossroads Preschool and Child Care Ministry will be canceled because of bad weather
if the Goshen Community School Corporation closes. Crossroads Preschool usually
does NOT call the station. Please watch/listen to your favorite station or check online to see if the Goshen Community Schools have closed due to snow. Morning (twohour) delays do NOT affect Crossroads Preschool.
Clothing / Attire
Your child will be most comfortable in the type of clothing that will allow him/her to
move freely. Clothing that is durable and easily laundered is best as our students will
be doing activities that require them to be on the floor. Clothing should be
comfortable and seasonally appropriate for outdoor play. PLEASE BE SURE TO PUT
YOUR CHILD’S NAME on all coats, hats, mittens, boots, book bags, etc. No clothing
will be laundered at the preschool.
Personal Belongings
We prefer that children do not bring toys from home unless it is a designated “Show
and Tell” time. You will be properly notified in advance if it is time for show and tell
(usually notification will come through the calendar). Little ones have a difficult
time sharing with others, and it is even harder with their own special toys. If toys are
brought, please note that they will be put away. Exceptions to this policy are that
each child may bring a favorite sleepy toy and/or blanket for naptime only.
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Supplies
Parents must supply the following items to be kept in their child’s cubby:
2 Year Olds
Diapers, refillable wipes pack (Huggies are preferable), pull-ups, and blanket
for nap time. Also an extra, shirt, pants, and pair of socks.
If needed you may bring baby powder. Also, if needed you may bring a pacifier
for naptime. Pacifiers will not be used throughout the day because pacifiers
often fall out and then are picked up by other children in the classroom. We
must avoid unnecessary passing of germs. If children need the application of
diaper rash ointment, sunblock, or any other topical ointment we will need
written parental permission, in advance, giving teachers and staff permission to
apply these types of creams.
3-5 Year Olds
An extra pair of underwear, shirt, pants, and socks. You may also include a
naptime blanket, small toy or stuffed animal for naptime (if needed). Please
write your child’s name on this item.
All eating utensils, cups and dishes will be supplied. Please do not bring them from
home.
Donations
Crossroads Preschool accepts and appreciates donations to the program (monetary,
supplies, educational items). All monetary donations to Crossroads Preschool are tax
deductible. Donations also help us keep costs down, so if you have any of the
following items on hand and are willing to donate them, it would be greatly
appreciated. This is not mandatory.
• Paper towels
• Anti-bacterial gel
• Anti-bacterial hand soap
• Paper plates
• napkins
• Kleenex
• Clorox Wipes
IDEAS! We welcome any ideas that you may have for fun activities or crafts!!! We do
not want any family to feel an obligation, but do appreciate any way we can further
increase and enrich the educational environment.
Preschool Schedule
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Our daily schedule will provide both the overall structure and flexibility which
children need:
7:30 a.m. - Ministry opens - free play
8:30 a.m. - Snack time
9:00 a.m. - Circle time (preschool curriculum begins, often will include bible
story)
10:30 a.m. – Fine motor skills & structured activities (crafts, centers, dramatic
play etc.)
11:45 a.m. - Wash-up for lunch
12:00 p.m. - Lunchtime
1:00 p.m. - Naptime
3:00 p.m. - Afternoon snack
3:30 p.m. - Gross motor play (outside weather permitting or gym)
5:00 p.m. - Free Play
5:30 p.m. - Ministry Closes
Weekly chapel will include all children and will be at 10:00am on Wednesdays.
Meals
Crossroads Preschool will provide both morning and afternoon snacks for every child.
Parents are expected to bring a sack lunch with their child’s name, clearly printed, on
the outside of the bag or lunch box. Please keep in mind that the state rules allow us
to reheat food (in a microwave), but NOT to cook food. If your child does not have a
drink we will supply them with water or juice.
If your child has allergies, and requires a modified diet, please describe everything in
detail on the Enrollment Form under Allergies. An appropriate substitution will be
made, if possible. If a child has so many allergies that he/she cannot eat from our
menu, we may require the parents to provide his/her lunch and snacks.
Fire Drills
We are required by state law to do one (1) fire drill per month at our location. We
vary the time of day to help the staff and children prepare to evacuate the building
quickly and safely. We will not do fire drills when the temperature is below 20
degrees.
Child Abuse and Protection
Crossroads Preschool supports and maintains a zero tolerance policy against child
abuse and neglect. All volunteers and employees will immediately document and
report any incident of suspected abuse or neglect which they observed and/or are
informed of by a child.
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Steps taken when a volunteer or employee makes a report:
1. The person reporting an incident of abuse will immediately contact the
Preschool Director who will then contact the parents or guardian of the alleged
victim to inform them of the incident.
2. The Preschool Director and employee will take steps to ensure the safety of
the alleged victim.
3. Child protective services will be notified by the Preschool Director or other
staff member about the suspected abuse or neglect.
Parental Involvement
We are always looking for volunteers to help us enrich the educational environment
for each and every child. We view volunteers as more people to show the love of
Christ to our children. We would love help with crafts and cut outs that we will
regularly have in the classroom. Here are a few ways to get involved in the daycare:
• Coming to talk about your job, when asked
• Coming in to read your favorite book to students
• Helping your child at home with the concepts we are studying (see monthly
newsletter)
• Helping your child prepare for "Show and Tell"
• Helping to provide treats or other items for our parties
• Scheduling a special party for your child on his/her birthday with the teacher
Discipline
Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Through an ongoing process of teaching, training, and learning that promotes selfcontrol, character development, and morally responsible behavior, preschool children
are helped to come to know, love, and follow Jesus as they begin to develop a set of
Biblical virtues and values. Using the following standards, we will protect and correct
your children using encouragement and consequences while assuring them in every
way possible that we truly love them.
Behavioral Expectations:
Rules we obey to show our love for God and God’s people
1. Be polite to others and respect one another. (Use kind words and actions)
2. Respect authority. (Obey directions the first time)
3. Respect peers. (Raise your hand if you want to talk; listen when someone else
is talking; and keep your hands and feet to yourself.)
4. Respect the property of others.
Positive Consequences
1. Learn about and please Jesus
2. Verbal encouragement
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3. Know you’ve done a good job
Negative Consequences (We will deal with problems individually)
1. Verbal discussions with child and then redirect the child to positive action.
(30/30 Method) – Give child thirty seconds of explanation about what was
wrong with his/her behavior and how she/he can modify it next time. Then
immediately follow up with thirty seconds of telling the child how much God
loves him/her and how much we love her/him. (I may not like what you are
doing, but I love you; and nothing you can do will change my love for you.)
2. Separation or time out for child with discussion following.
3. Call or meet with parents and develop a “working together” plan.
As we work with those who are so very precious to Jesus, we want to love them and
provide them with a safe and secure environment as they learn about God, life,
others, and themselves. We want to honor children as Jesus did. The experts tell us
that kids truly want and need boundaries. They also need consequences. Young
children need to experience stepping over boundary lines and then receiving the
forgiveness of a loving adult. Never breaking the rules, experiencing consequences,
and receiving forgiveness prevents a child from understanding that she/he is loved
and accepted unconditionally.
Health Issues, Medication and Illness
Crossroads Preschool is a "well-child care facility". At no time do we provide sick
childcare. The following illness policies will be strictly enforced, for the health, wellbeing and safety of all concerned.
Sick Child Policy
Under NO circumstances may a parent bring a sick child to daycare. (See below:
HEALTH SYMPTOMS REQUIRING REMOVAL OF CHILD FROM CHILD CARE.)
Sick children will expose all children and staff members who they come in contact
with. These people can in turn expose the other children. Sick children want care
from their parents in the comfort of their own homes. If other children become ill due
to exposure to your sick child, either because he/she was returned to day care before
full recovery or because he/she was not picked up promptly upon notice of becoming
ill, other parents will be unnecessarily inconvenienced. Because this is disruptive to
other children and their families, your cooperation on this issue is extremely
important.
Children will be visually screened when they arrive in the morning. In the event a
child becomes ill and needs to be picked up, the parent(s) will be called and are
expected to come pick the child up within one hour (60 minutes). If the parent(s)
cannot be reached, or have not arrived within an hour, the emergency contact person
will be called and asked to come pick the child up.
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For the benefit of our staff and other children in our care, a sick child will not be
permitted to return to care for 24 hours after their condition has returned to normal.
The child may return 24 - 48 hours (depending upon the illness) after they have
received the first dose of an antibiotic. If a child receives an antibiotic for an ear
infection, he/she may return to day care immediately if he/she has been free of
other symptoms mentioned for at least 24 hours. If you aren't sure about whether or
not to bring your child to care, please call the director to discuss it. Allergy related
symptoms, and non-communicable illnesses do not require exclusion if you have a
note from your doctor.
Health Symptoms requiring removal of child from day care:
• Fever: Fever is defined as having a temperature of 100°F or higher taken under
the arm, or 101°F taken orally. A child needs to be fever free for a minimum of
24 hours before returning to daycare, that means the child is fever free without
the aid of Tylenol®, or any other fever reducing substance.
• Rash
• Diarrhea: runny, watery, bloody stools, or 2 or more loose stools within last 4
hours.
• Vomiting
• Runny nose (other than clear), draining eyes or ears.
• Frequent scratching of body or scalp, lice, rash, or any other spots that
resemble childhood diseases, including ringworm.
Medication
Parents will provide any medications needed by the child, including over-the-counter
and prescription medicine. Written authorization by a physician is needed for us to
administer ANY and ALL medication, prescription or over-the-counter. NOTE: All
medicines must be in their original container with pharmacist's or manufacturer's
label, child's name, dosage instructions, current date, name of medication, and times
to be administered clearly written.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND AGREEMENT
I have received and read a copy of Crossroads Preschool Policies and Procedures and
understand the importance of the material in the handbook. I agree to abide by these
guidelines while my child attends Crossroads Preschool. I understand that I am
agreeing to monetary compensation for child care services. I understand the manual
may be modified, and that any guideline may be amended, revised, or eliminated by
Crossroads Preschool.
Printed Name: _____________________________________________
Signature: _________________________________________________
Date: _____________________________________________________